James Van Der Beek’s wife says he’s ‘bouncing back’ amid cancer battle

James Van Der Beek is “bouncing back” during his cancer battle, according to his wife Kimberly Brook.

James Van Der Beek’s wife says he’s “bouncing back” during his cancer battle.

The 48-year-old Dawson’s Creek actor – who was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer last year – has started to sell merchandise inspired by 1999 film Varsity Blues to help himself and other patients with funding for cancer treatments.

James – who played Jonathan Moxon in the coming of age classic – shared a photo on Instagram of himself in a white high school football jersey with the name Moxon on the back.

His wife Kimberly Brook commented: “You’re a wizard. Bouncing back baby!!”

James captioned the post: “By popular demand! My favorite jersey. Maybe it was all fun plays we got run in the football sequences for the away games… but I always loved putting on the varsity whites.

“Last year when I released the Blues jersey, I was blown away by the love and support I received from all of you. It has meant more than I can ever express.

“I hope you enjoy this one as much as the original. For me, every jersey I sign is a magical full-circle moment.

“Thank you for the love, the prayers, the support, and for making this jersey mean something far bigger than a movie. Endlessly grateful for all of you.

“Proceeds go directly toward helping with treatment and supporting families walking the same path. Limited quantities – link in bio. Promise I’ll get the signed ones turned around quicker this time #varistyblues.”

James recently confirmed he was putting up several of his Dawson’s Creek props and costumes for sale to help fund his treatment.

The items from his personal collection – including the necklace Dawson gave Joey for prom in Dawson’s Creek, which is estimated to fetch between $26,400 and $52,800 – will be available next month in Propstore’s Winter Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction from December 5 to 7.

He told PEOPLE magazine: “I’ve been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the right time to do something with them, and with all of the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented recently, it’s clear that the time is now.

“While I have some nostalgia tugging at me as I part with these items, it feels good to be able to offer them through Propstore’s auction to share with those who have supported my work over the years.”